The PSNI is investigating pictures posted on social media which appear to show a baby being held under a running tap.

The disturbing images have been distributed on popular sites including Twitter and Facebook in recent days sparking a furious backlash from many users.

Tonight the PSNI in Newy and Mourne confirmed concerned members of the public had contacted them about the pictures.

An officer posted on the service's Facebook page: "Folks many, many, many off you have been in touch with us via private message about a couple of images appearing on Facebook showing a child being held under a tap.

"We are aware of these images and have commenced an investigation.

"Please rest assured that we will carry out a thorough investigation into these images."

Yesterday we revealed a specialist PSNI unit is currently investigating four new cases of vile online abuse every week.